Question

Among the following, between which of the two, the relationship is not an example of commensalism?

• A. Orchid and the tree on which it grows
• B. Cattle egret and grazing cattle
• C. Sea anemone and clown fish
• D. Female wasp and fig species

Answer 1

The correct option is D Female wasp and fig species

Commensalism is the interaction in which one species benefits
and the other is neither harmed nor benefited. Examples: Orchid and the tree on which it grows, cattle egret and grazing cattle, sea anemone and clown fish.

Mutualism interaction exists between fig tree and wasp. The female wasp uses the fruit not only as an oviposition site but uses the developing seeds within the fruit for nourishing its larvae. The wasp pollinates the fig while feeding their larva at the egg laying sites and in turn, the fig offers the wasp developing seeds, as food for the developing larvae. Hence, both of them are benefitted.